Cotton Calling!

Strap: Soft, sustainable, and stylish—cotton wins Bangalore hearts, sparking a vibrant, stylish, citywide revival

Blurb:

The fabric’s eco-friendly nature aligns with a growing preference for responsible fashion, making it a go-to choice for summer wardrobes and beyond

Byline: Bhuvana Shridhar

A timeless silhouette and a fabric woven into India’s cultural fabric, cotton is experiencing a vibrant revival in Bangalore. The city’s residents are gravitating towards cotton not just for its softness and breathability but also for its sustainability — qualities that perfectly match Bangalore’s evolving fashion ethos. From lush banana plantations to bustling boutiques, cotton’s story is as diverse as the city itself.

Cotton trends in Bangalore today blend age-old craftsmanship with contemporary designs, appealing to a broad audience from traditionalists to the young, fashion-forward crowd. The fabric’s eco-friendly nature aligns with a growing preference for responsible fashion, making it a go-to choice for summer wardrobes and beyond.

To understand this resurgence and what makes cotton truly special, OB caught up with three top Bangalore-based fashion experts — Ritu Pande, Prasad Bidappa, and Anil Hosamani — each bringing a unique perspective on cotton’s place in today’s style and sustainability conversation.

‘Cotton evokes calm, elegance’

OB: Why is cotton gaining such popularity among Bangaloreans?

Pande: Bangaloreans have always cherished natural fabrics, reflecting our city’s cultural values. Cotton’s breathability and timeless elegance make it ideal here. Homegrown brands have reinvented cotton with chic, modern designs, sparking renewed interest, especially among Gen Z. The comfort and sustainability factors resonate deeply with today’s consumers.

OB: How do you style cotton for Bangalore’s summer climate?

Pande: My mantra is light, layered, and flowing. Neutral hues like ivory, pastels, and blacks keep the styles elegant and breathable. I favour lightweight cottons like mul mul, which is soft, moisture-absorbent, and perfect for the humidity.

OB: Any tips for all-season cotton wear?

Pande: Soft pastels and neutral tones work beautifully year-round. They evoke calm and elegance, suitable for every age and occasion. Gentle taupe, and delicate pastel hues in cotton create a calming, serene palette perfect for any season. These shades exude elegance and tranquillity, making them a refreshing wardrobe choice for all ages.

*** Ritu is Designer and Fashion Council Veteran

‘Cotton connects me to roots’

OB: How do you incorporate cotton into your fashion choreography?

Prasad: Cotton’s versatility and cultural roots fascinate me. I use it to create flowing movements and dramatic visuals on the runway. For Karnataka Fashion Week, cotton’s vibrant colours and textures brought energy and life to the shows.

OB: What guides your fabric selection?

Prasad: I consider the event’s theme, colours, and fabric flow. Lightweight cotton suits summer events, while embroidered cotton fits formal occasions. Movement and texture are key.

OB: Where do you draw your inspiration?

Prasad: Indian textiles, cultural heritage, and nature inspire me. Cotton, from khadi to bandhani, tells rich stories through fashion. Working with cotton connects me to my roots and lets me showcase Indian textiles to a wider audience. Choreographing with cotton is a joyful blend of fashion, culture, and performance.

***Prasad is Fashion Curator and Choreographer

‘Lightweight cotton blends are best’

OB: What versatile cotton styles work for Bangalore’s weather?

Hosamani: Bangalore’s weather is perfect for layering. Start with breathable cotton tees or kurtas, add light jackets or vests for style and warmth. Mix prints and textures like linen over cotton to create dynamic looks. Mix prints and textures—linen over cotton or denim on denim—for a bold look. Accessorise with scarves, statement earrings, or a belt bag for flair.

OB: Any fabric tips for breathability and comfort?

Hosamani: Lightweight cotton blends are best. Layering helps adapt to temperature shifts, keeping outfits stylish and practical. Footwear should balance comfort and style—sneakers, loafers, or ankle boots fit Bangalore’s walking culture. Finish with sunglasses, minimal jewelry, and a sling bag.

OB: What colours and combos do you recommend?

Hosamani: Pastels like peach, lilac, sky blue, and pistachio pair well with whites and neutrals. Earth tones like sage green and muted terracotta are great for garden parties. Embroidered cotton or lace layering adds elegance and femininity.

***Anil Hosamani is a Consultant Stylist and Entrepreneur